“Kathakar Ki Diary” (The Story of Ordinary Lives), directed by IRS officer Anwesh, has been officially selected at the prestigious 15th South Asian Film Festival of Montreal, adding another proud milestone to its growing global journey.
The film dives deep into the unheard stories of marginalized communities, including the Hill Kharia tribe of Odisha and members of the transgender community. Blending realism with touches of magical realism, Kathakar Ki Diary presents an emotional and thought-provoking narrative about resilience, dignity, and the quiet strength of ordinary lives.
What makes the film even more special is its grassroots spirit. Created with the collective effort of over 200 independent artists and technicians from Odisha, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra, the project stands as a testament to the power of community-driven storytelling. Performances by Kapil Bhagwat, Yogesh Jadhav, and Baby Aarohi Chatterjee add authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative.
The film has already built an impressive international reputation. It has won Best International Film in the No Budget category at the International New York Film Festival and at the Director’s Cut International Film Festival in Canada, besides earning a nomination for the prestigious NETPAC Award at the Kolkata International Film Festival. It has also been screened at several prominent festivals across Argentina, Canada, India, and the United States.
Audiences have responded with overwhelming emotion. During one of its festival screenings, members of the transgender community were moved to tears, highlighting the film’s honest and heartfelt portrayal. Veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha has also praised the film, drawing comparisons to the socially relevant cinema of Satyajit Ray and Mrinal Sen.
With its selection in Montreal, Kathakar Ki Diary continues to prove that powerful storytelling rooted in reality can travel beyond borders and touch hearts across the world.
